Andre Gomes set for Everton return against Arsenal on Sunday
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Wednesday 19 February 2020 05:57, UK
Andre Gomes is "ready to play" for Everton against Arsenal on Sunday, less than four months after suffering a fracture dislocation of his right ankle, says Carlo Ancelotti.
The Portuguese player has been sidelined since November 3 when he sustained the injury playing against Tottenham at Goodison Park.
Having returned to first-team training at the end of last month, the 26-year-old completed 60 minutes of a behind-closed-doors friendly just 105 days after being injured.
It means Gomes could now be poised for a competitive comeback when Everton travel to the Emirates this weekend, live on Sky Sports, with manager Ancelotti hinting the former Barcelona player is in contention for a starting role.
"He did well (in the weekend practice match), he played comfortably and without any problems and he is available, in my opinion, to play," Ancelotti told evertontv.
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"Of course, I have to speak to him about how he feels after playing his first game following a long time out. My personal opinion is he is ready to play.
"When a player has been out for a long period, I think it is better to start the game.
"He can prepare properly, (rather) than to put him on from the bench but I have to speak to him and together we can find a solution."
Everton go to Arsenal one position and two points above the 10th-placed Gunners, with both teams in the pack jostling to qualify for European football.
However, there remain injury doubts over Theo Walcott who was forced off with a knee complaint in the first half of the 3-1 win over Crystal Palace with the former Arsenal forward currently not in training.